Animal Shelters by City

What is an Animal Shelter?

Household animals that no longer have homes are often brought to animal shelters. Animal shelters are safe places to bring animals that are abandoned or lost. Many shelters will also take in animals that are sick or injured. In some areas of the U.S., humane societies will also provide shelter for animals. Shelters often serve as pet adoption centers. Animal shelters are also open to household pets taken from owners who can no longer care for them, those who have mistreated them, or those who have violated animal welfare laws.

Shelters provide animal care, rescue, and animal control. They assist with adopting dogs, cats, and other pets. They also may offer services like spaying or neutering. Shelters may offer adoption. Local and county governments fund some dog pounds and animal shelters, while volunteers and donations provide further support.